About
Hello, my name is Ed Dougherty. I am a craftsman/hobbyist. I currently live in central North Carolina with my beautiful soul friend, Dawn. Together, we can be found frequenting local flute circles, music festivals hither and yon, and generally making happy mischief!
I love working with my hands, and feel most fulfilled when I have a creative project to occupy my spare time. Over the years, I have dabbled in many different artistic endeavors, but most enjoy working with wood in all its forms. Whether carving or crafting, nothing else speaks to me like the look, feel and smell of wood. I appreciate the natural beauty and diversity of wood and consider it a most wonderful gift of nature. I am constantly experimenting with wood and other mediums, and learning from them as my craft evolves.
Edward Dougherty, aka Greybeard
The Tree of Life
The Tree Of Life is a mystical concept, a common motif and metaphor in many varied world theologies, mythologies and philosophies. The branches of the tree reach high into the heavens, while the roots dig deeply into the earth. Both are woven together to signify the connection between all things in the heavens and the earth. Trees provide sustenance and habitat for all creatures great and small. They are a source of healing medicinal extracts. Their wood provides materials to build shelter, fires for preparing nourishing meals, warming the body on a frigid night, as well as engaging in spiritual rites and rituals.
Trees also represent the bounty of Mother Earth and the eternal cycle of the seasons. The Tree of Life is a symbol of the individual's quest for spiritual fulfillment. Tree Of Life Designs, is a true backyard business, a cottage industry that represents the fruits of my work. I feel truly blessed to be able to create, and along with my many friends and wonderful family, find it to be an endless source of joy and light in my life.
Warm Words From Flute Friends!
"Ed Doughtery's Tree of Life Designs flutes are some of the highest quality flutes that I've had the privilege of playing. With every note the flute sings, you can feel the love and craftsmanship that went into its creation and you know that Ed truly loves what he does. I own two Tree of Life Designs flutes and look forward to expanding my collection." Gwain N., North Carolina
"I just picked up my custom eastern red cedar Key of G from Tree of Life Designs. It is a most excellent piece of musical craftsmanship! Ed is truly a master. The sound is beautifully warm and fluid. Ed put a lot of heart into my flute and it shows in the special touches he put on the flute, that adds great spiritual significance and energy to the instrument. The simplicity of the piece shows off its natural beauty. Ed truly connects with his customers through his flute making! Tree of Life Designs' flutes have soul!" Blake B., North Carolina
"The first thing I do each morning when I awaken, is to take a hot shower, then I have a cup of coffee, then I play my Fm that was made for me by Ed Dougherty. I can recommend this as a superb and excellent way to start any day!!! In the last 3 years, I have owned 27 flutes, from 13 of the most reputable flute makers in America, which I finally realized one day was way too many as I simply could not play them all. I am now down to 12, and 4 of them have come from Tree of Life Designs. I will never get rid of a flute made by Ed....NEVER. Ed's craftmanship is first class. His flutes are impeccably tuned and play as if they are made of magic. In fact, I joke with Ed that he must use Faery Dust in the creation of his Masterpieces. Who knows, maybe he does? If you do not own one of Ed's flutes yet, I can only ask, why not? A very happy customer" Tenzin K, California
"I've been playing my two flutes quite a bit... tone is forward and bright, and it is so responsive to minor finger movements and breath nuances. I like it more the more I play it. You, sir, are a steely-eyed missile man! Thanks for your work!" David M., Missouri